Wilmington, North Carolina perfectly blends history, culture, and coastal beauty. This American beach town’s unique mix makes it a popular destination that oozes Southern hospitality and charm. This spot is home to a thriving food scene and is considered a top location for Hollywood filming. (THN Travel Trivia: Ever wonder where they filmed The Summer I Turned Pretty? Cousins? You got it! Wilmington, North Carolina!!) Nothing beats the centuries-old architecture in the historic downtown sector or the picturesque Riverwalk, not to mention the stunning beaches nearby. Wilmington is the perfect place to experience city energy and beach vibes!
Stroll Through Wilmington’s Historic Downtown and Riverwalk
Wilmington’s historic downtown core is one of the largest in the American South. The architecture is beautifully preserved, the streets are lined with trees, and travelers enjoy strolling its cobblestone streets. The downtown covers more than 230 blocks! The Riverwalk is an award-winning area that stretches along the Cape Fear River. Wandering the streets feels like you’ve stepped back in time. The Riverwalk is lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and cafes.
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Step Into Hollywood: Wilmington’s Famous Filming Locations
Wilmington is also referred to as “Hollywood East.” The location is the perfect East Coast spot for filming TV shows and movies. Amazon Prime’s The Summer I Turned Pretty was filmed all over Wilmington, spotlighting three of the best local beaches as Cousins Beach. The Fisher Family beach house is located in a private gated community but travellers can visit the Carolina Beach Boardwalk, which was the backdrop for the show’s carnival scene, and the Fat Pelican bar. Other popular hits that filmed in Wilmington include Iron Man 3, The Conjuring, One Tree Hill, and Dawson’s Creek.
Relax on the Beautiful Beaches Just Minutes Away
Some of North Carolina’s most stunning beaches are within a stone’s throw of Wilmington. Wrightsville Beach is arguably the area’s most popular beach. Its crystal-clear water and active surf culture make it an ideal spot for water sports of all kinds, including paddle boarding and sailing. (THN Travel Tip: Wrightsville Beach is less than a 15-minute drive from downtown Wilmington. Head there first!) Carolina Beach is 20 minutes away and boasts a classic boardwalk with amusement rides and plenty of live music. Kure Beach tends to have a more laid-back vibe, with its fishing piers and nature trails located about 25-30 minutes from Wilmington.
Discover Unique Attractions and Coastal Adventures
The Battleship North Carolina greets visitors as they cross the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge. The World War II ship is docked on the Cape Fear River, directly across from downtown Wilmington. History buffs will love its immersive experience options. The vessel was a technological marvel when it was initially commissioned in 1941 as one of the first fast battleships. For those looking for some time in nature, head to Airlie Gardens for its centuries-old live oak trees. The site’s walking trails are part of 67 acres of Wilmington’s public parkland. (THN Travel Tip: Plan your trip to Airlie Gardens for springtime to catch tens of thousands of stunning azaleas and camellias in full bloom.) Finally, for more coastal adventures, consider kayaking the Intracoastal Waterway or taking a river cruise.
Savor Wilmington’s Food, Drinks, and Southern Hospitality
Wilmington’s culinary scene reflects its Southern roots and coastal setting. Highlights include oysters, shrimp and grits, and classic fish fry. Some of the freshest oysters on the American East Coast are from Stump Sound and Topsail Island. (THN Travel Tip: The best fish fry is served with coleslaw, cornbread, lemon, and tartar sauce.) Opt for crab cakes, blackened mahi-mahi, or order classic Southern comfort dishes like fried chicken, collard greens, and biscuits. Wilmington is quickly becoming a craft beer hub, home to more than a dozen breweries. Indie cafés dot the coast and are home to strong brews and good vibes.
